L-R – Barnsley College Vice Principal Technical and Professional Education, Gav Batty; Esports student, Alfie Caunt; and Barnsley College Principal and Chief Executive, David Akeroyd.
Our Esports student Alfie Caunt has been named as a runner up at the Association of Colleges (AoC) Student of the Year awards.
The AoC Student of the Year awards is a national ceremony which celebrates the achievements and successes of exceptional students who stand out from the crowd.
Alfie, a Level 3 Esports, Enterprise and Entrepreneurship student, was nominated in the Young Student of the Year (16 to 18-years-old) award category sponsored by the Edge Foundation for his commitment to promoting inclusion and accessibility for all in the world of gaming. He has taken the initiative to adapt games and controllers to make them more accessible for individuals with disabilities and increase their physical activity levels by using virtual reality and HADO, a VR-based game.
Alfie impressed the judges by showing great creativity and compassion in finding ways to ensure that everyone can enjoy gaming and esports, regardless of their physical abilities.
Alfie said: “It’s an honour to be a runner up for such a prestigious award, to come this far is beyond mind-blowing. I am so thankful for everyone around me for helping me throughout my last year, as it wouldn’t have been possible without them. I hope this recognition can show people the power of esports and what we can achieve with it.”
Barnsley College Principal and Chief Executive, David Akeroyd, added: “We are thrilled with Alfie’s achievements and success at the Association of Colleges Student of the Year awards.
“These awards shine a light on individuals who have made a significant impact in their College and/or community. To be named runner up in AoC Young Student of the Year award is a privilege and Alfie should be extremely proud of his accomplishments; we certainly are and we wish him every success for the future.”
Corrienne Peasgood, President of the Association of Colleges, commented: “Each year the level of applications is extremely high, which shows the fantastic work students are doing in colleges as well as the lengths colleges go to support their students. Well done Alfie, you should be really pleased with your achievements.”
Esports student, Alfie Caunt.
Last updated: 15th February 2024